🇪🇸 Cost of Living in San Sebastian - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: March 2026
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$57,965 (2024)
Inflation Rate2.8% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$3,107 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend20.9% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)4.6% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data
The cost of living in San Sebastian is generally considered to be moderate to expensive, with daily budgets ranging from $60-120 USD per day for backpackers to $200-350 USD per day for mid-range travelers.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelModerate
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$60-120 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$120-250 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$250-400 USD
CurrencyEUR
Tipping Customnot expected, but 5-10% in restaurants and bars
How Expensive Is San Sebastian?
San Sebastian, located in the Basque Country of Spain, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Compared to other European cities, San Sebastian is considered to be moderately expensive, with prices similar to those found in other major Spanish cities like Barcelona and Madrid. However, when compared to other destinations in the Basque Country, San Sebastian is generally more expensive due to its high demand and limited supply of accommodation options. The city's proximity to the French border and its reputation as a gastronomic hub also contribute to its relatively high cost of living.
Overall, San Sebastian is a great destination for travelers who are looking for a unique and authentic experience, but may not be the best fit for those on a very tight budget. With some planning and research, it is possible to find affordable accommodation and dining options, but visitors should be prepared for higher prices than in other parts of Spain. The city's mild climate, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural heritage make it an attractive destination for tourists, and its relatively high cost of living is a reflection of its popularity and desirability.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$25-40
typical quality, shared rooms and bathrooms
Mid-Range Hotel
$80-150
what to expect, private rooms and bathrooms, breakfast included
Luxury/Resort
$200-400
what to expect, high-end amenities and services, beachfront locations
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$600-1,200
city center vs outside, prices vary depending on location and amenities
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$10-15
Casual Restaurant
$20-30
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$40-60
Fine Dining
$80-120
Beer (local)
$5-7
Coffee
$2-3
Water (1.5L bottle)
$1-2
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$1-2
Taxi (per km)
$1.50-2.50
Domestic flight
$50-100
Fuel (per liter)
$1.20-1.50
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
600
1,000
1,500
Food
300
500
800
Transport
100
150
200
Utilities
100
150
200
Entertainment
200
300
500
Total
1,300
2,200
3,500
Money-Saving Tips
Consider visiting San Sebastian during the off-season (October to May) when prices for accommodation and tourist attractions are lower.
Look for accommodation options outside of the city center, such as in the nearby towns of Gros or Antiguo, where prices are generally lower.
Take advantage of the city's pintxos culture, where small plates of food are available at affordable prices in local bars and restaurants.
Use public transportation instead of taxis to get around the city, as it is affordable and efficient.
Visit local markets, such as the Mercado de San Martin, to buy fresh produce and other groceries at lower prices than in supermarkets.
Avoid eating at restaurants in the city center, where prices are generally higher, and instead opt for local eateries and tabernas in the surrounding neighborhoods.